Green candidate unveiled for local council by-election

Midlothian Green Party members have announced the selection of Helen Armstrong as their candidate to contest the Penicuik by-election on March 22.

Helen has lived in Penicuik with her family for more than 11 years, and currently chairs the Penicuik High School Parents’ Association. She is a consultant ecologist who has campaigned to protect primary school playing fields.

Helen said: “I love Penicuik’s strong sense of community, the friendliness of the people and the huge range of activities that take place, largely run by committed volunteers.

“The voluntary groups and council-run facilities which make Penicuik a special place to live need strong support from Midlothian Council, and if elected I will fight hard to protect them.

“I joined the Green Party because I believe we are the only party that understands the connections between economic, environmental, community and personal health. Our vision for Penicuik is one where local businesses thrive and provide fulfilling jobs in a clean, green environment and where schools, healthcare and housing really meet the needs of local people.

“The voting system for council elections means that there is no such thing as a wasted vote and I urge Penicuik voters to give their number one vote to Midlothian Greens to call for a different and better way forward for our communities.”

The by-election was called following the death of Councillor Adam Montgomery (Lab) in January.